Matt Burgy, Head of School

September 4, 2026

Dear Oakridge Family,

One of the great things about working with young people is that they rarely remain exactly who they were when they first walked through our doors.

A student who thinks of herself as an athlete may discover that she loves history. A student who has never considered himself a performer may find his way onto the stage. Someone may discover a gift for leadership, a subject that fascinates them, an unexpected friendship, or simply the confidence to try something they once would have avoided.

Our students are more than a grade, a test score, a position on a team, a role in a production, or any single accomplishment. They are still becoming.

Our mission calls us to inspire students to seek their potential through academic excellence, enriched by the arts and athletics. I have always appreciated the word enriched because it reminds us that a great education is shaped by many experiences.

The classroom matters. The stage matters. The field and court matter. Friendships matter. Service matters. The conversations with teachers, coaches, advisors, and classmates along the way matter. And sometimes, the experience that shapes a student most will be one they never expected to have.

As we settle into the rhythm of another school year, I hope we continue giving our students opportunities to explore broadly, take chances, and resist the temptation to define themselves too quickly.

They are still becoming, and we are fortunate to have a front-row seat to that growth.

Warmly,

Matt Burgy

Head of School